Concept 2 - Deception and Manipulation Flashcards
Racisms and Prejudice
Point Sentence
Central to the machiavellian manipulation, Shakespeare’s incorporation of deception and intrigue as a mechanism for driving the tragic consequences of the play is evident in Othello’s own downfall. Shakespeare explores the concepts of racism and prejudice that existed during the Jacobean era and characterises the protagonist as being susceptible to deception, who suffers through emotions such as despair and jealousy, despite his high social status.
In Act 1 Scene 3, Iago makes a confession to the audiences as he reveal his plan to manipulate Roderigo for his “sport and profit”
The soliloquy in this dialogue
gives the audiences the insights into Iago’s moral corruption and deep treachery in the play. Thus, Shakespeare effectively conveys to the audiences the complexities of human behaviours that are driven through emotions such as hatred and jealousy.
Additionally in Act 2 Scene 3, Iago’s jealousy and his attempt to seek revenge is evident in “Our general’s wife is now the general”
The paradox of the word ‘general’,
implies that Desdemona has influence over her husband and thus, Cassion should appeal to her, rather than to Othello. In doing so, Shakespeare reveals the complexity of human nature which could be manipulated by individuals such as Iago, to facilitate revenge and jealousy.
Furthermore, Act 3 Scene 3 provides insights into the complexities of human natures and conditions which could easily drive an individual’s descent into suspicion and regret.
The use of juxtaposition in
“I think my wife be honest, and think she is not”
reveals the impacts of deception in Othello’s ability in distinguishing what is true and what is a fallacy which leads to his wavering trust towards Desdemona. Thus, Shakespeare highlights how human nature is inevitable through the depiction of Othello being more subject to his emotions which leads to his overall hamartia near the end of the play.
Linking Sentence
Ultimately, Shakespeare’s representation of machiavellian evil throughout the tragedy highlights the vulnerability of the human conditions and how individuals, symbolised through the protagonist Othello, are susceptible to manipulation. By doing so, Shakespeare underscores the fragility of human judgement and the devastating consequences of misplaced trust in a world rife with deceit.
